Today we’d like to introduce you to Tidawhitney Lek.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born and raised in east side Long Beach in a neighborhood now called Cambodia Town. I was raised in the economy of poverty with a mother and father of seven along with close relatives. We lived in a household with 13 people in a two bedroom apartment. A crowd of personalities that only pushed me in my endeavor to find life’s passion. I grew up understanding that I lacked knowing but sure enough understood what the universe has given me. The liberty to express myself in such way that it has granted me so many blessings that I am deeply thankful for. I achieved my Bachelors of Fine Arts in 2017 from Cal State University of Long Beach and majored in Drawing & Painting. I have earned several scholarships and granted trips for my studies. I now freelance as a studio assistant in Los Angeles and continue to make work in my studio in downtown LA.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a painter and I work with all sorts of mediums. My focal subject has been childhood memories. I construct environments that reflect or reference time, identity, and image. I depict events that clash ideologies and layer it with ambiguity by juxtaposing connections. It is an experiential investigation and it delves into its own kind of research. I hope the experience follows through for audience and achieves a sense of true trance that can consider itself somewhat alluring. It’s always better in person.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
Being lonely is a choice. Accept it or not. Social media and technology has made it possible and easier these days to connect. Reach out.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have an Instagram account and it is there best to follow up on any updates on shows that I might occur in within the future. There is also another space by the name of Midnight Gallery in downtown Long Beach where I have shown on several occasions. I actively participate in my local community along with the FA4collective where a network of artists have established artist-run spaces. I would like to recommend Flatline Studio in north Long Beach run by Cynthia Lujan and Elizabeth Munzon, colleagues of mine.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: tidawhitney
Image Credit:
instagram @tidawhitney
Artist Tidawhitney Lek
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